demurrage
noun
de·mur·rage
di-ˈmər-ij 
-ˈmə-rij
1
: the detention of a ship by the freighter beyond the time allowed for loading, unloading, or sailing
2
: a charge for detaining a ship, freight car, or truck
Examples of demurrage in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
On top of that, navigating bureaucratic procedures, ensuring documentation is in order and avoiding costly demurrage fees all require constant coordination, follow-up and adaptability.
—
Cynthia Tully, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025
Maersk boosted its profit outlook as the carrier saw its ocean volumes increase 4.2 percent from the year prior and demurrage and detention revenues increased 20 percent.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 7 Aug. 2025
The New York Terminal Conference Agreement states that cargo remaining on the terminal in excess of 30 days will be considered as abandoned and sold for collection of demurrage charges due to the NYTC — charges assessed for leaving freight at terminals for an excessive period of time.
—Lori Ann Larocco, CNBC, 12 Apr. 2025
In some cases, the shipments are eventually cleared, but only after supply chains were disrupted and demurrage charges accrued.
—Steve Banker, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Cynthia Tully, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025
Maersk boosted its profit outlook as the carrier saw its ocean volumes increase 4.2 percent from the year prior and demurrage and detention revenues increased 20 percent.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 7 Aug. 2025
The New York Terminal Conference Agreement states that cargo remaining on the terminal in excess of 30 days will be considered as abandoned and sold for collection of demurrage charges due to the NYTC — charges assessed for leaving freight at terminals for an excessive period of time.
—Lori Ann Larocco, CNBC, 12 Apr. 2025
In some cases, the shipments are eventually cleared, but only after supply chains were disrupted and demurrage charges accrued.
—Steve Banker, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Demurrage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/demurrage. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share